Cold Weather Payments Activated in 18 UK Areas Amid -5C Freeze
As the UK braces for a bitter cold snap, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) has activated Cold Weather Payments in 18 regions. This initiative is in response to forecasts indicating temperatures may drop to -5°C over the coming days.
Cold Weather Payments Activated Amid Forecasted Freeze
On December 30, 2025, the DWP announced that approximately 6,000 households in specific areas of England would receive a £25 payment. This payment is automatically triggered when temperatures are expected to remain at or below 0°C for seven consecutive days.
Affected Areas
Cold Weather Payments have been activated in the following postcode areas:
- CA10 Cliburn, Cumbria
- CA11 Catterlen, Cumbria
- CA12 Keswick, Cumbria
- CA16 Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria
- CA17 Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria
- LA10 Sedbergh, Cumbria
- LA21 Coniston, Cumbria
- LA22 Lakes, Cumbria
- LA23 Windermere, Cumbria
- LA8 Kendal, Cumbria
- LA9 Kendal, Cumbria
- CA9 Alston, Cumbria
- NE19 Elsdon, Northumberland
- NE47 Allendale, Northumberland
- NE48 Bellingham, Northumberland
- NE49 Haltwhistle, Northumberland
- DG14 Dumfries Border (parts in England)
- TD9 Scottish Borders (parts in England)
Health Alerts and Forecasts
The cold weather has prompted amber health alerts for the North East and North West of England, expected to remain active until noon on January 5. These alerts warn of significant impacts on health services, particularly for vulnerable populations.
In addition, a yellow warning for snow and ice has been issued for parts of Scotland from 6 am on New Year’s Day, extending until midnight on January 2. Weather forecasts predict snow accumulation of up to 30cm in higher regions.
Mark Sidaway, Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster, indicated that the UK is entering a significant cold spell. Residents are advised to stay informed about ongoing weather warnings and updates as conditions worsen.
Eligibility and Payment Details
Cold Weather Payments are automatically transferred to eligible households. To qualify, individuals must be receiving certain benefits such as Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Universal Credit.
The DWP clarified that payments are made directly into recipients’ bank accounts within 14 days after being triggered, ensuring timely support for those in need. Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell emphasized the importance of this financial assistance as temperatures drop, highlighting ongoing efforts to support vulnerable groups this winter.
As the new year approaches, residents should prepare for colder weather while utilizing available resources, including Cold Weather Payments, to help manage the risks associated with extreme temperatures.
